Maternity Hospitals Melbourne South East: A Complete Guide for Expecting Mums

Choosing where to give birth is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during pregnancy. The hospital you choose can influence your overall experience — from the style of care you receive during antenatal appointments to the birthing options available, and the level of support for both you and your baby after delivery.

Every family has different priorities. Some mums want the reassurance of advanced facilities and access to specialist care, while others are drawn to more personalized environments that feel calm and supportive.

Key Things to Consider When Choosing a Maternity Hospital

Midwife or Doctor Care

Some hospitals offer continuity of care with the same midwife or team throughout pregnancy and birth, while others rotate doctors and midwives. Think about whether you’d feel most supported by a familiar face or if you’re happy with a wider team approach.

Antenatal & Birth Classes

Many hospitals run classes on labor, breastfeeding, and early parenting. These aren’t just about learning — they’re a great way to ask questions, meet other local mums, and feel more prepared when the big day arrives.

Pain Relief & Birth Options

From gas and air to epidurals or water births, not every hospital has the same options. If you have a strong preference (like wanting a water birth or access to all pain relief methods), check that your hospital supports it.

Newborn Support (SCN/NICU)

Special Care Nurseries (SCN) and Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) are lifelines if your baby needs extra help. Some hospitals can only provide short-term monitoring, while others are fully equipped for premature or high-risk babies. Knowing what’s on site can give you peace of mind.

Hospital Facilities & Comforts

It may sound small, but things like room size, private vs shared rooms, parking availability, and visiting hours can make a big difference in your recovery and first bonding days. Some mums prioritize medical expertise, while others love the boutique comforts.

Support for Your Birth Plan

Every hospital encourages a birth plan, but some are more flexible than others when it comes to sticking with your preferences. Ask how the team works with mums who want specific birth choices (e.g., delayed cord clamping, skin-to-skin, dimmed lights, etc.).

Searching for a Birth Hospital Near Me

Many expecting mums start with simple searches like “birth hospital near me” or “maternity hospital near me.” These searches usually highlight the closest facilities in your area, but location isn’t the only factor worth considering. While convenience matters — especially once labor starts — it’s also important to check whether that hospital offers the level of maternity care you’ll need, from midwife-led support to neonatal services.

This Comprehensive Guide takes a closer look at both public and private maternity hospitals in Melbourne's South East, outlining the prenatal and birthing services they provide, their strengths and challenges, and practical tips to help you decide which option is best for your family.

Public Maternity Hospitals in Melbourne’s South East

Public hospitals in Melbourne’s South East provide a wide safety net for expectant mums, offering comprehensive maternity care from routine antenatal appointments to high-risk pregnancy management. These hospitals are part of larger health networks like Monash Health and Peninsula Health, which means you’ll benefit from access to specialist services and transfer pathways if complications arise.

What to Expect at a Birth Hospital

Parents often google “what to expect at a birth hospital” to better prepare for the big day. Generally, you can expect routine antenatal appointments, access to birthing suites with varying levels of support, and follow-up postnatal care. Some hospitals offer antenatal classes, lactation consultants, and visiting policies for partners — all factors that can influence your experience.

The main public hospitals in the region — including Dandenong, Casey, Frankston, Monash Clayton, and Sandringham — differ in size, facilities, and atmosphere. Some offer smaller, more intimate environments, while others are busy tertiary centers with neonatal intensive care units. Below, we break down what each hospital offers, along with insights into what mums typically love, the challenges to be aware of, and practical tips for making your experience smoother.

Casey Hospital (Berwick)

Casey Hospital, part of Monash Health, is located in Berwick and is one of the busiest maternity providers for families in Clyde, Cranbourne, Officer, Narre Warren, Berwick, and surrounding suburbs.

Services & Prenatal Care

Casey offers antenatal appointments via the Monash Women’s Clinic, with care shared between midwives, doctors, and sometimes your GP. The hospital runs antenatal classes including labor, birth, breastfeeding, and parenting preparation. Ultrasounds and blood tests are available on-site. Midwife team models are available, but high demand means they book quickly.

Birthing Services

Casey has a large maternity unit with midwife-led birthing support and obstetricians available for higher-risk cases. Pain relief options include gas, epidurals, and caesarean access. Birthing suites are well equipped, and the on-site Special Care Nursery (SCN) provides support for babies needing monitoring.

Pros

• Known for friendly and supportive midwives.

• Antenatal and birthing services integrated into the hospital.

• Access to Monash Health’s broader network if complications arise.

  
  

Cons

• Parking is limited and stressful during peak times.

• High demand can make it difficult to secure continuity-of-care.

• Busy environment may feel overwhelming for some families.

  
  

Tips for Mums

• Book early to secure a place in your preferred care model.

• Allow extra time for parking before appointments.

• Ask about your options for antenatal classes and tours.

  
  

Dandenong Hospital / Monash Women’s (Dandenong site)

Dandenong Hospital is part of the Monash Health network and home to a dedicated Monash Women’s Clinic located right on site. This makes it one of the key public maternity hospitals for families in Melbourne’s South East, servicing suburbs like Dandenong, Endeavour Hills, Keysborough, Springvale, Noble Park, and beyond.

Services & Prenatal Care

Expecting mums can attend antenatal appointments either through the Monash Women’s Clinic (midwife-led or shared care with your GP) or directly with hospital midwives and doctors. The clinic provides routine antenatal care, ultrasounds, diagnostic imaging, fetal surveillance, and pathology — all on the same campus. Specialist support is available for higher-risk pregnancies, with seamless referrals to Monash Clayton if needed.

Antenatal and parenting classes cover birth preparation, breastfeeding, and early parenting. Most women will see a rotating team of midwives, while obstetric doctors step in for moderate- or high-risk pregnancies. Student midwives and doctors may be involved.

Birthing Services

Dandenong runs a 24/7 labor ward with anaesthetists and obstetricians available, offering pain relief options including epidurals. Facilities include birthing suites for various birth positions, theatres for caesareans, and intensive care if complications arise. The on-site Special Care Nursery (SCN) cares for newborns who need extra monitoring, though very high-risk babies are transferred to Monash Clayton’s NICU.

Pros

• Most services (scans, pathology, antenatal) are available on-site.

• Strong multicultural and inclusive care with interpreter support.

• Integrated into Monash Health network for smooth escalation.

  
  

Cons

• Not a full NICU — transfers required for very high-risk babies.

• Can feel busy and less personalized during peak times.

• Continuity-of-care midwife options limited unless you book early.

  
  

Tips for Mums

• Book early to secure your care pathway.

• Confirm where scans will take place (Dandenong vs Clayton).

• Tour the maternity ward and SCN to get comfortable.

• Pack comfort extras — facilities are functional but not boutique.

• Have a clear birth plan but stay flexible.

  
  

Frankston Hospital

Frankston Hospital is run by Peninsula Health and is one of the largest maternity hospitals in the South East, covering Frankston, the Mornington Peninsula, and surrounding suburbs.

Services & Prenatal Care

Prenatal appointments are managed by midwives, obstetricians, or shared care with GPs. Frankston offers antenatal education classes in birth preparation, breastfeeding, and early parenting. The hospital also supports high-risk pregnancies with access to obstetric specialists.

Birthing Services

The maternity ward is one of the largest in the region, with multiple birthing suites offering pain relief, including epidurals. Caesareans are available 24/7. The hospital has both a Special Care Nursery (SCN) and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) support for premature or unwell babies.

Pros

• Large, experienced maternity team.

• NICU access on-site.

• 24/7 obstetric and emergency theatre support.

  
  

Cons

• Very busy — wait times can be long.

• Facilities are more functional than luxurious.

• Mums often recommend bringing personal comfort items.

  
  

Tips for Mums

• Tour the maternity ward to ease nerves.

• Bring your own pillows and comfort extras.

• Ask about continuity-of-care midwife programs.

  
  

Monash Medical Centre (Clayton)

Monash Clayton is one of Melbourne’s busiest and most advanced maternity hospitals, serving as the tertiary referral center for high-risk pregnancies across the South East. As part of Monash Health, it provides comprehensive maternity services, from routine antenatal care to specialist clinics for complex conditions, and it houses a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for babies needing the highest level of support.

Services & Prenatal Care

Monash provides everything from standard antenatal appointments to complex high-risk pregnancy management. Specialist clinics include diabetes, genetic counseling, and fetal medicine. Antenatal classes are available for birth, parenting, and breastfeeding.

Birthing Services

Monash has 24/7 labor wards, operating theatres, full pain relief, and one of Victoria’s largest Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). It offers midwife-led care for low-risk pregnancies and specialist-led care for high-risk cases. Birth plans are supported but must adapt to the hospital’s busy environment.

Pros

• Gold standard for high-risk pregnancy care.

• Immediate NICU access on-site.

• Wide range of specialists and services.

  
  

Cons

• Extremely busy and less personal.

• High demand can mean less continuity of care.

• Some mums find the scale overwhelming.

  
  

Tips for Mums

• Be prepared for lots of paperwork.

• Ask about midwife group practice for more continuity.

• Take advantage of classes and support groups.

  
  

Sandringham Hospital

Sandringham is a smaller maternity unit, part of Monash Health, suited for low-risk pregnancies. It services Sandringham, Bayside, and nearby suburbs.

Services & Prenatal Care

Antenatal appointments are midwife-led, with shared care available through your GP. Antenatal classes are offered for birth and early parenting. Higher-risk pregnancies are referred to Monash Clayton.

Birthing Services

Sandringham has midwife-led birthing suites, pain relief options, and supportive staff. However, it does not have a NICU — high-risk mums and babies are transferred to Monash Clayton.

Pros

• Small, friendly, and less clinical environment.

• More intimate, personalized feel.

  
  

Cons

• Limited facilities and fewer beds.

• Not suitable for higher-risk pregnancies.

  
  

Tips for Mums

• Book only if your pregnancy is low-risk.

• Have a clear transfer plan in case of complications.

• Enjoy the smaller, supportive environment.

  
  

Private Maternity Hospitals in Melbourne’s South East

For families who want more comfort and personalized care, private hospitals in Melbourne’s South East offer an alternative to the public system. With private hospitals, you’ll choose your own obstetrician, have access to modern birthing suites with private ensuites, and enjoy boutique-style facilities like partner accommodation, better meal options, and longer postnatal stays.

Postnatal Ward Quality Matters

One search that is often overlooked but incredibly valuable is “which hospital has a good postnatal ward.” Birth is just the beginning, and your recovery environment matters. A supportive postnatal ward provides help with breastfeeding, newborn settling, and emotional wellbeing, alongside comfort factors like partner accommodation and private rooms. A hospital with strong postnatal support can make the transition to parenthood smoother and more positive.

Private hospitals like St John of God Berwick, Jessie McPherson, Mulgrave Private, and The Bays Mornington are highly regarded for their personalized approach, though each differs in size, atmosphere, and services. Some are larger, city-based facilities with access to tertiary care, while others are smaller, boutique options for families who prefer a more intimate setting.

Choosing a Birthing Hospital

It’s natural to search “choosing a birthing hospital” or “how to choose a hospital for birth” when you’re unsure of the differences between facilities. The decision usually comes down to a mix of clinical services, personal comfort, and practical considerations. Asking yourself questions about what pain relief options matter most, whether you prefer midwife-led care, and how important postnatal support is will make your choice clearer.

St John of God Berwick Hospital

St John of God Berwick is one of the best-known private maternity hospitals in Melbourne’s South East, servicing Berwick, Clyde, Officer, Narre Warren, Pakenham, and surrounding suburbs. The modern maternity wing has a hotel-like feel, making it popular among mums who want comfort alongside medical support.

Services & Prenatal Care

Care is obstetrician-led, which means you’ll choose and book your own private obstetrician, who provides continuity throughout your pregnancy. Antenatal education classes are available, covering labor preparation, breastfeeding, and parenting. Tours of the maternity unit are offered, so parents can get comfortable before the big day.

Birthing Services

The birthing suites are modern and well-equipped, with private ensuites and access to a wide range of pain relief options, including epidurals. The hospital has 24/7 access to anaesthetists and theatres for caesareans. A Special Care Nursery (SCN) supports babies needing extra observation.

Post-birth, mums and babies stay in private rooms, with meals provided and partner accommodation available. Midwives and lactation consultants offer daily support.

Pros

• Luxurious, hotel-style facilities.

• High level of personalized care with your own obstetrician.

• Partner can stay overnight.

• Excellent food and postnatal support.

  
  

Cons

• Expensive, even with private insurance.

• Must secure an obstetrician who delivers here.

• No on-site NICU (transfers go to Monash Clayton if needed).

  
  

Tips for Mums

• Book your obstetrician early, as many have limited availability.

• Ask about out-of-pocket costs (gap fees).

• Consider a tour to see the maternity wing — it helps visualize your experience.

  
  

Jessie McPherson Private Hospital (Clayton)

Jessie McPherson is located on campus at Monash Medical Centre in Clayton. Mums can enjoy the boutique feel of a private hospital while still having direct access to Monash’s world-class facilities if complications arise. This close connection provides extra reassurance for families, particularly those who want the comfort of private care but also the peace of mind of advanced medical support right next door.

Services & Prenatal Care

As with other private hospitals, you’ll book your own obstetrician for prenatal appointments. Jessie McPherson offers antenatal education, including birth classes, breastfeeding workshops, and parent programs. Because it shares a campus with Monash, specialist support is on hand for high-risk pregnancies.

Birthing Services

Birthing suites are private and include ensuites. Pain relief options, including epidurals, are available, and caesarean theatres are on-site. The hospital connects directly to Monash’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), meaning if your baby needs high-level care, they don’t need to be transferred elsewhere.

Pros

• Private care with the backup of a major public tertiary hospital.

• Immediate NICU access.

• Highly experienced staff.

  
  

Cons

• Less boutique “hotel” feel compared to other private hospitals.

• Can feel more clinical due to the shared campus with Monash.

• Costs can be significant.

  
  

Tips for Mums

• Ideal if you want private comfort but need reassurance of tertiary care access.

• Book early to secure your obstetrician.

• Ask about room inclusions (partner stays, meals).

  
  

Mulgrave Private Hospital

Mulgrave Private is a smaller, community-focused maternity hospital in Melbourne’s South East. Families from Mulgrave, Glen Waverley, Wheelers Hill, and nearby suburbs often choose it for the intimate atmosphere and personalized care.

Services & Prenatal Care

Care is provided by your chosen obstetrician. Mulgrave offers antenatal classes, including labor and parenting preparation. Appointments and monitoring are mostly done externally with your obstetrician’s rooms, with hospital facilities available as needed.

Birthing Services

Mulgrave has private birthing suites with ensuites, access to pain relief including epidurals, and caesarean facilities. While it does not have a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, a Special Care Nursery supports babies needing low to moderate monitoring. High-risk newborns are transferred to Monash Clayton.

Pros

• Smaller hospital with a more personal, less overwhelming environment.

• Private rooms for postnatal care.

• On-site support for uncomplicated births and moderate-risk pregnancies.

  
  

Cons

• No NICU — transfers required for babies needing intensive care.

• Fewer obstetricians deliver here compared to larger private hospitals.

• Limited number of maternity beds.

  
  

Tips for Mums

• Best suited for low- to moderate-risk pregnancies.

• Ask your obstetrician if they deliver at Mulgrave.

• Book antenatal classes early, as spots are limited.

  
  

The Bays Hospital (Mornington)

The Bays is a boutique private hospital on the Mornington Peninsula, attracting families from Frankston, Mount Martha, Mornington, and surrounding suburbs who want a more peaceful, coastal birth experience. Known for its calm atmosphere and personalized approach, it offers a quieter alternative to the larger city hospitals.

The hospital also provides modern maternity facilities, giving families peace of mind that they’re receiving expert medical care in a safe setting. Many mums choose The Bays for the combination of high-quality healthcare and a nurturing, boutique environment that helps them feel supported throughout pregnancy, birth, and recovery.

Services & Prenatal Care

Prenatal care is obstetrician-led. Antenatal classes are offered for birth preparation, breastfeeding, and early parenting. The hospital also provides tours for expectant parents to view the maternity wing.

Birthing Services

The Bays offers private birthing suites with ensuites and a boutique atmosphere. Caesarean facilities and anaesthetic services are available, and babies needing extra monitoring are cared for in a Special Care Nursery. For high-risk cases requiring intensive care, transfers are made to Monash Clayton or Frankston.

Postnatal stays include private rooms with partner accommodation and meals.

Pros

• Peaceful, boutique environment.

• Strong postnatal support.

• Coastal location feels calm and private.

  
  

Cons

• No NICU — transfers are required for unwell babies.

• Smaller hospital with limited bed availability.

• Distance may be a factor for families further inland.

  
  

Tips for Mums

• Book early as places fill quickly.

• Perfect for families wanting a calm, boutique-style birth.

• Ask your obstetrician about transfer arrangements if complications arise.

  
  

Final Thoughts on Maternity Hospitals in Melbourne’s South East

There’s no single “best” hospital — the right choice depends on your pregnancy needs, budget, and personal preferences. Public hospitals in Melbourne’s South East provide excellent care and are well equipped for emergencies or high-risk situations, while private hospitals offer comfort, continuity with your chosen obstetrician, and a more relaxed environment.

Finding the Best Public or Private Maternity Hospitals

Another common query is “best public maternity hospital” or “best private hospital for birth.” Public hospitals often appeal to families looking for comprehensive care at no direct cost, while private hospitals may be chosen for their boutique rooms, continuity of care with your chosen obstetrician, and extra postnatal support. “Best” can look different for each family — it might mean access to a NICU for high-risk pregnancies or simply a quieter environment for recovery after birth.

Whichever path you choose, the most important thing is that you feel supported, safe, and confident in your decision. And while you’re planning your hospital stay, don’t forget to plan for the special memories that follow — booking your newborn photography session early ensures you’ll capture those first days with your baby, preserving moments you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

Capture Your Story with Maternity & Newborn Photography in Melbourne’s South East

While choosing the right maternity hospital is one of the first big steps in your pregnancy journey, planning how you’ll capture those early memories is just as important. I’m Alana from Alana Taylor Photography, a specialist in maternity photography melbourne and newborn photography melbourne, with over 15 years of experience working with families across Melbourne. From glowing maternity portraits to those precious first days with your newborn, my photography is all about creating timeless, heartfelt images you’ll treasure forever.

I offer a warm, professional studio environment where you can feel comfortable, relaxed, and confident knowing your little one is in safe hands. My maternity photography price and packages are affordable for all families and budgets. Sessions are styled to highlight your natural glow and celebrate the anticipation of motherhood, while my newborn sessions focus on capturing those fleeting first days — tiny fingers, sleepy expressions, and the overwhelming love that fills the room.

Families choose me because I bring a mix of creativity, care, and expertise to every maternity photography Melbourne and newborn photography Melbourne session. From guiding you with outfit choices to styling each session with timeless props, to ensuring baby safety at every step - my sessions are designed to be relaxed, enjoyable, and stress-free for parents.

With over 15 years of experience working with families across Clyde, Berwick, Cranbourne, Pakenham, Officer, Narre Warren, Frankston, and the Mornington Peninsula, I know how to create stunning, professional images that you’ll look back on with love. Each gallery is carefully edited and designed to become a treasured keepsake, whether displayed in an album, framed on your wall, or shared with family.

Whether you’re preparing for birth at Casey Hospital, Frankston, Monash Clayton, or St John of God Berwick, or one of the boutique options like The Bays Mornington, my Melbourne Baby Photography Sessions are designed to complement your journey and preserve the memories you’ll cherish forever.

If you’re researching maternity hospitals in Melbourne’s South East right now, it’s the perfect time to also secure your Pregnancy Maternity Photos and Newborn Photography Melbourne. Booking in early ensures that you won’t miss out on these special moments. Spots book out quickly, so inquire today to ensure your baby’s first moments are captured beautifully.

👉 Ready to plan your session? Visit Alana Taylor Photography to view my maternity and newborn galleries, pricing, and availability.

Cake Smash Photography Melbourne – Fun, Creative & Unforgettable Sessions

As your baby grows, the celebrations don’t stop at birth — their first birthday is another milestone worth capturing in style. My cake smash photography Melbourne sessions are all about fun, color, and personality, whether it’s with a traditional cake or one of my many creative cake smash alternatives.

Families across Clyde, Berwick, Cranbourne, Pakenham, Narre Warren, and the Mornington Peninsula love these First Birthday Smash Cake Photos sessions for the laughter, mess, and unforgettable photos that perfectly capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment.

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